When was the last time you visited a dermatologist?

For some people, it’s part of their regular healthcare routine. For others, a dermatology appointment doesn’t cross their mind until a new mole appears, acne becomes frustrating, or a rash refuses to go away.

But dermatologists do more than treat occasional skin problems. They help diagnose and manage conditions affecting your skin, hair, and nails, including concerns that may not be obvious at first.

So, how often should you see a dermatologist? The answer depends on your skin health, medical history, and risk factors. Some patients benefit from regular skin exams, while others may only need appointments when a concern develops.

Here are seven signs it may be time to schedule a visit.

Do You Need to See a Dermatologist Every Year?

At Skin Solutions Dermatology, we encourage patients to schedule a skin cancer screening once a year. Regular skin exams give your dermatology provider an opportunity to evaluate new or changing spots and discuss your individual skin cancer risk.

Patients with a personal history of skin cancer or other risk factors may benefit from more frequent examinations. Your provider can help determine the best screening schedule for you.

And remember: You don’t have to wait for your next routine appointment if something new or concerning appears.

7 Signs It’s Time to See a Dermatologist

1. You’ve Noticed a New or Changing Mole

Have you noticed a mole that’s getting darker, growing, changing shape, or looking different from your other spots?

These changes deserve attention.

Dermatologists use the ABCDEs of melanoma to help identify potentially concerning moles:

• A — Asymmetry: One half looks different from the other.

• B — Border: The edges are irregular or poorly defined.

• C — Color: The spot contains multiple colors or uneven pigmentation.

• D — Diameter: Melanomas are often larger than 6 millimeters when diagnosed, but they can be smaller.

• E — Evolving: The mole changes in size, shape, color, or appearance.

A new or changing mole doesn’t automatically mean skin cancer. However, it’s important to have suspicious changes evaluated promptly rather than waiting for your next routine exam.

2. You Have a Spot That Won’t Heal

That small scab or irritated patch you’ve been ignoring might deserve a closer look.

A sore that repeatedly crusts, bleeds, heals, and returns—or doesn’t heal as expected—can sometimes be a sign of skin cancer.

Other warning signs may include:

• A persistent rough or scaly patch
• A shiny or pearly-looking bump
• A growth that gradually increases in size
• A spot that bleeds without an obvious injury

Not every unusual spot is cancerous, but a dermatologist can evaluate the area and determine whether additional testing is needed.

3. Your Acne Isn’t Improving With Over-the-Counter Products

You’ve tried different cleansers, acne treatments, and skincare routines, but your breakouts keep coming back.

Sound familiar?

While over-the-counter acne products can help with mild breakouts, persistent acne may benefit from professional treatment.

Consider scheduling an appointment if:

• Your acne is painful or deep beneath the skin.
• Breakouts keep returning despite consistent treatment.
• You’re developing acne scars or dark marks.
• Acne is affecting your confidence or everyday life.

A dermatology provider can help identify the type of acne you’re experiencing and recommend appropriate treatment options.

You don’t need to have severe acne to benefit from seeing a dermatologist.

4. You Have a Rash That Keeps Coming Back

An occasional rash may improve with gentle skincare or by avoiding an irritant.

But what if the redness, itching, or irritation keeps returning?

Recurring rashes can have several causes, including:

• Eczema
• Contact dermatitis
• Psoriasis
• Allergic reactions
• Certain skin infections

Because these conditions can look similar, identifying the cause is important for choosing the right treatment.

If your rash isn’t improving, keeps returning, or interferes with your daily activities, a dermatology appointment can help you find answers.

Explore our eczema treatment information to learn more about managing recurring skin irritation.

Important: Seek prompt medical attention for a rapidly spreading or painful rash, especially if you also have a fever, blistering, or involvement of your eyes or mouth.

5. You’re Experiencing Unexplained Hair Loss or Scalp Changes

Did you know dermatologists also treat conditions affecting your scalp and hair?

Some daily hair shedding is normal. However, sudden hair loss, noticeable thinning, bald patches, or persistent scalp irritation may indicate an underlying condition.

Possible causes include:

• Alopecia areata
• Scalp inflammation
• Hereditary hair loss
• Certain medical conditions or medications
• Temporary shedding following illness or significant stress

Because hair loss has multiple possible causes, treatment depends on identifying what’s contributing to the change.

A dermatologist can evaluate your scalp and hair and determine whether additional testing or treatment is appropriate.

6. Your Nails Are Changing in Appearance

Your nails can sometimes reveal important clues about your skin health.

Changes worth discussing with a healthcare provider include:

• Persistent nail discoloration
• Thickening or crumbling nails
• Nail separation from the nail bed
• Unexplained nail pain or inflammation
• A new or changing dark streak beneath a nail

Some nail changes result from injury or fungal infections, while others may be associated with inflammatory skin conditions or, rarely, skin cancer.

A new or changing dark streak should be evaluated promptly, particularly when the change affects one nail.

7. You Have a Personal or Family History of Skin Cancer

If you’ve previously been diagnosed with skin cancer, following your recommended dermatology appointment schedule is especially important.

A personal history of skin cancer increases the risk of developing another skin cancer.

Other factors that may influence your screening recommendations include:

• A family history of melanoma
• Numerous or atypical moles
• Significant past sun exposure or blistering sunburns
• A history of tanning bed use
• A weakened immune system

Your dermatologist can help determine how frequently you should have professional skin exams based on your risk factors.

What Happens During a Dermatology Skin Exam?

If you’ve never had a full-body skin exam, you may be wondering what to expect.

A skin exam is generally straightforward and focuses on identifying unusual or potentially concerning areas.

During your appointment, your provider may:

1. Review your medical history: Including previous skin conditions, family history, and sun exposure.

2. Examine your skin: Looking for unusual moles, growths, lesions, or other concerns.

3. Evaluate suspicious spots: Using closer examination or a dermatoscope when appropriate.

4. Discuss next steps: Recommending monitoring, treatment, or a biopsy if a spot requires further evaluation.

A full-body skin exam may include areas that are difficult to see yourself, such as your scalp, back, and feet.

If a suspicious spot requires a biopsy, your provider will explain the procedure and next steps.

How Often Should You Check Your Skin at Home?

Regular skin self-exams can help you become familiar with what’s normal for your body.

Many healthcare professionals suggest checking your skin about once a month, although the best frequency may depend on your individual risk.

When examining your skin, look for:

• New or changing moles
• Spots that look different from your others
• Growths that itch, bleed, or change
• Sores that don’t heal
• Unusual changes beneath your nails

Don’t forget less visible areas, including your scalp, back, between your toes, and the soles of your feet.

Helpful tip: Take photos of spots you want to monitor so you can recognize changes over time.

Self-exams are helpful, but they don’t replace professional evaluation when something looks suspicious.

Can You See a Dermatologist Without Having a Skin Problem?

Yes!

• You don’t have to wait until a skin concern becomes uncomfortable or severe to schedule an appointment.
• A dermatology visit may help you:
• Discuss your individual skin cancer risk
• Determine whether routine skin exams are appropriateGet professional guidance about ongoing skin concerns
• Ask questions about your skin, hair, or nails
• Explore treatment options for conditions affecting your skin health

Dermatology care isn’t limited to treating problems after they become serious. It can also help you make informed decisions about your skin health. 

How often should I see a dermatologist if I have no skin problems?

There isn’t one recommended appointment schedule for everyone. If you don’t have symptoms or significant skin cancer risk factors, discuss whether routine professional skin exams are appropriate with your healthcare provider.

At what age should you start seeing a dermatologist?

There is no single age when everyone must begin dermatology visits. Children, teenagers, and adults can benefit from dermatologic care when they have skin, hair, or nail concerns. Skin cancer screening recommendations depend on individual risk rather than age alone.

Should I get a skin check every year?

Annual skin checks may be appropriate for some patients, particularly those with certain risk factors or a history of skin cancer. Others may need a different schedule. Your dermatology provider can help determine the right frequency.

Can a dermatologist check a mole without doing a full-body exam?

Yes. You can schedule an appointment to evaluate a specific mole or concerning spot. Your provider may recommend a more complete examination depending on your symptoms and risk factors.

What is the difference between a skin check and a dermatology appointment?

A skin check generally focuses on examining the skin for suspicious spots or signs of skin cancer. A dermatology appointment can address a broader range of concerns, including acne, eczema, psoriasis, hair loss, and nail conditions.

Should I see a dermatologist for acne or eczema?

Yes, especially if symptoms are persistent, recurring, painful, or not responding to appropriate over-the-counter care. Dermatology providers can help diagnose the condition and recommend individualized treatment options.